OK, so what is all this hubbub about the NEW business etiquette? What is so new about etiquette?

Well, there is a difference. Much of that difference has been brought about for two reasons. The first follows women moving into the workforce and working in positions that are at least equal to those previously held by men. The second has to do with new things: voice mail, cell phones, technology.

Its this whole equality thing that has prompted a new look at old traditions:

The etiquette of yesteryear was based on two things: respect and chivalry

The etiquette of todays business world is based on one: respect.

Yesteryear: the woman exited the elevator first

Today: the person closest to the door exits the elevator first

Yesteryear: the man held the door for the woman

Today: the person reaching the door first holds the door for others to pass through

Yesteryear: men shook hands

Today: people shake hands

Yesteryear: people waited to start dinner until the woman picked up her fork

Today: people wait to start dinner until the host or hostess picks up his or her fork.

Yesteryear: the man picked up the check

Today: the host or hostess picks up the check

Chivalry is dead in the business etiquette world. Instead, gender based etiquette reverts to the same considerations of rank and position that have been followed for centuries.

As an example, when introducing people, the lower ranking person is introduced to the higher ranking person, regardless of gender. Ms. CEO, Id like to introduce you to Ms. Manager. And dont forgetthe client or customer always outranks the highest officer in the company. Mr. Customer, Id like you to meet Ms. CEO.

But remember, etiquette has never lost its base of respect and consideration.

New technology left a void in etiquette rules

Some of our new etiquette is not because of gender equality, but because of new things. In yesteryear, we did not have things like cell phones, email, and voice mail. But we do now, and Emily Post might turn over in her grave if she sees how some folks are handling these new situations. Here are some guidelines to move us along in this world of new things:

Email:

Clean up emails you forward. No one likes to read the prior ten back and forth comments;

Start every email with a salutation;

Sign every email, and include your contact information. Auto signatures are great for this;

Copy only those persons who truly need the information.

Voice Mail:

Leave a detailed message that always includes your phone number and best time you can be reached.

Provide an introduction and your name when forwarding a voice mail message.

Your voicemail greeting should include directions on how to reach someone else if the concern is urgent.

Cell phones and PDAs:

Turn off your cell phone in meetings; focus your attention fully on the meeting. If you are expecting an important call, periodically check your phone to see if any messages have been left, then, for only truly urgent calls, excuse yourself and leave the meeting to retrieve the message;

Never put your cell phone on the conference table;

Find a private area to make and take cell phone calls. No one likes to hear others conversations, do you?

Keep cell phone calls brief when you are in public areas or in earshot of others;

Turn the ringer to low to avoid annoying others;

Shouting into cell phones is another etiquette blurp (no matter how bad the reception is);

Always turn the cell phone off during public performances;

Never put your cell phone on the table in a restaurant;

Never make/take a call while at the table in a restaurant; remember to excuse yourself and move to a private area;

If you inadvertently forget to turn your cell phone off, and it rings while you are in a meeting, turn it off immediately and apologize. You can discreetly check the number that called to see if it is a possible emergency. Otherwise return the call as soon as you can after the meeting;

Leaving a cell phone on while on the golf course could be hazardous to your health, especially if it rings in the middle of your bosss backswing;

Most of all, be safe with cell phones. Use the hands free option if using a cell phone in your car, and watch where you are walking if you are walking and talking at the same time.

Etiquette is not really new; it has had to change because the world is changing. Whether it is gender equality or new efficiency tools, etiquette has always had its base in respect for others. And that will never change.

Marsha D. Egan, CPCU, ACC is president of The Egan Group, Inc., a success coaching firm, specializing in one-on-one success telecoaching, keynote speaking, and leadership training. She is past president of the national CPCU Society. She publishes the bi-weekly success building ezine, The Signal, and can be reached at marsha@marshaegan.com.